Halima Begum has resigned as Oxfam GB chief executive after an investigation upheld bullying claims, triggering board loss of confidence amid financial pressures and staff unrest across the charity sector.
Halima Begum, born in Bangladesh and raised in London’s East End, has stepped down as Chief Executive of Oxfam GB following an independent investigation into her leadership. The review found “serious issues” in her behaviour and decision-making, prompting the board to lose trust and confidence in her.
About 70 staff members signed a letter urging an investigation into Dr Begum’s conduct. Several employees reportedly resigned after conflicts with her. The review, carried out by legal firm Howlett Brown between November and December 2025, included testimony from 32 current and former colleagues and documentary evidence.
Oxfam said the investigation highlighted breaches of organisational processes and inappropriate interference in safeguarding and integrity matters. The board described Dr Begum’s position as “untenable.” Jan Oldfield, the charity’s chief supporter officer, will serve as acting CEO. Acting co-chairs Nana Afadzinu and Dame Annie Hudson said their priority is to stabilise the organisation and rebuild staff confidence.
The resignation comes amid a difficult year for Oxfam. Profits from its UK shops fell by two-thirds over three years and 250 of its 2,100 staff were made redundant earlier this year to save £10.2 million. Dr Begum said these challenges were driven by “deep uncertainty, rising inflation and a cost-of-living crisis.”
Liberty chief Akiko Hart defended Dr Begum on LinkedIn, calling her a “mentor and friend” and urging the public to “wait for all the facts to emerge.”
Dr Begum has held senior roles at ActionAid UK, DFID, the British Council and the LEGO Foundation. She has been recognised as one of the most influential disabled people in the UK and among the most influential British South Asians.
